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Vaikuta makuun oikealla lautasliinan värillä

Did you know that our perception of taste is not only influenced by ingredients but also by the colors around us? The choice of napkin color can subtly enhance sweetness, acidity, or saltiness in a meal. Here are tips and scientific insights to create a more enjoyable table setting.

How color affects taste perception

Our senses are interconnected. Colors can influence the perception of taste, temperature, and aroma. Lighter colors can make food seem more acidic, while darker colors can enhance sweetness or richness.

COLORS

Skaldjursgryta med musslor och räkor på vit tallrik med orange servett.
Light yellow, yellow, and orange

Enhances acidic flavors and pairs perfectly with fish, seafood, and green dishes.

  • Fresh and energetic expression
  • Perfect for summer servings
Efterrätter med bär och choklad på vit tallrik med röda servetter.
Red, burgundy, and coral

Ideal for desserts and dishes with red elements – these colors enhance sweetness and warmth.

  • Creates a luxurious and inviting feel
  • Perfect for evening service and dessert buffets
Ugnsbakad lax med rostade grönsaker och beige/vitrandig servett.
Gray, beige, cream, and white

Balances colorful dishes – highlights details without overpowering.

  • Creates a clean and elegant feel
  • Suitable for classic dishes and lunch settings
Gourmetmat med pilgrimsmussla och fläskfilé på svart tallrik med mörkgrå servett.
Black, dark brown & anthracite gray

Enhances light dishes and gives a sophisticated, exclusive look.

  • Perfect for fine dining and evening service
  • Adds drama and contrast
Skaldjurstallrik med musslor, räkor och bläckfisk mot mörkblå servetter.
Dark blue & light blue

Softens saltiness and highlights yellow tones. Creates a fresh and calm atmosphere.

  • Perfect for fish dishes
  • Adds a cool, maritime feel
Sallad med ätbara blommor och pistagegröna servetter på utomhusbord.
Green & pistachio

Highlights yellow dishes and adds a natural, harmonious feel to the table.

  • Ideal for vegetarian menus
  • Perfect for summer and lunch settings

Practical tips for table setting

  • Choose color based on the meal
    Think about the dish and the feeling you want to enhance. A chocolate dessert gets extra sweetness with a burgundy napkin, while fish and seafood feel more acidic with yellow/orange napkins.
  • Combine with the rest of the setting
    The napkin is part of the whole. Plate colors, runners, and candles also affect taste perception. Create harmonious contrasts and match with the food.
  • Avoid color conflicts
    The wrong color can mute the character of the dish. Example: a dark napkin with a light citrus dessert can make the flavor less pronounced.

FAQ

Which napkin color suits fish and seafood?

Yellow or orange enhances acidity.

Can napkin color really affect taste?

Yes, sensory experiences are interconnected – colors influence taste perception.

How to choose napkin color for dessert?

Red or burgundy can enhance sweetness; light colors can boost acidity.

Match color and taste with the right napkin

Author: Tingstad

Last Updated: 2025-11-06

Table setting.

Napkins, table cloths, candles and lanterns - together they make the components you need to create a beautiful table setting. In our range you will find a wide selection of products in different colors and models that will help you create an table setting that fits your business. Shop everything you need for the table setting at Tingstad.

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